Himelfarb likens computer impact on chess to AI conversation

Author Jordan Himelfarb joined us last week at the Picton Branch Library to discuss his book, Interregnum.

When an audience member asked, he explained that “interregnum” means the period between two kings – an apt title for a book about the struggle for a new chess champion following the departure of longtime grandmaster and World Chess Champion Magnus Carlsen.

Himelfarb described the impact computer intelligence has had on chess – describing the impact on the chess community when it became clear that computers were better players than even the best human. Interestingly he likened it to the current conversation around Artificial Intelligence happening today – and concluded that people will always want human connection, whether that is through humans playing chess or humans writing books.

Copies of Interregnum are available to borrow at the Library.

This talk was the latest in a series of author conversations at the Picton Branch Library this fall. The final evening conversation will feature author Harvey Brownstone who will discuss his book, Without Prejudice: My Life as a Gay Judge on Thursday, Oct. 22 at 7 p.m. All are welcome.

Upcoming darning workshop
Get ready for winter by giving your well-loved wool clothes a little more life. Join Becky Lamb and Vi Woo for a cozy, hands-on introduction to darning — the simple, satisfying skill of repairing worn or holey knits with a needle and thread. Bring along a woolly item that needs some mending and learn the basics of stitching it back together. No previous sewing experience necessary.
Made possible through a donor fund at the County Foundation. Join in on Saturday, Oct. 24 at 1 pm, Picton Branch Library

Looking for a sewing instructor! New sewing machines are coming to the Picton Branch Makerspace and we would love to host sewing classes. Contact liz@peclibrary.org